Mikel Arteta expressed frustration that Anthony Gordon’s controversial winner against Arsenal stood at St James’ Park on Saturday.
Gordon’s scrappy strike in the 64th minute put an end to the Gunners’ unbeaten Premier League run. In the lead-up to the pivotal goal, VAR conducted a lengthy check to determine if the ball had crossed the line and whether there had been a foul by Joelinton. The goal was also reviewed for offside but was eventually upheld.
This outcome resulted in the Magpies moving up to sixth place, while the north Londoners, despite having 60% possession and taking 14 shots compared to the hosts’ nine, lost ground to league leaders Manchester City. But Arsenal boss Arteta, visibly furious after the match, made no effort to conceal his emotions.
Arteta ’embarrased’ with VAR decisions against Newcastle
“I have praised my players for the way they played and competed in this stadium against this team. The result should not be what it is – there are many reasons for that. If there was a team looking to win the game today it was Arsenal,” he told BBC’s Match of the Day.
“Embarrassing what happened – how this goal stands, in the Premier League – this league we say is the best in the world. I’ve been 20 years in this country and now I feel ashamed. It’s a disgrace and there’s too much at stake here. We are trying to do incredible things and be at the highest level each week.
“When we’re not good enough I hold my hands up and take responsibility. But the outcome is nowhere near the level this league needs to have and the way this league is getting competed in. It’s not good enough. I feel embarrassed to be part of this.”
Once again, the major point of discussion from the game was the controversial use of VAR, with Newcastle also expressing anger over Kai Havertz avoiding a red card. However, on the field, this outcome dealt a significant blow to Arsenal’s chances of winning the title, despite it being only 11 fixtures into the season.
